Karnataka Authorities Halt Screening Of ‘Hamare Baarah’ Over Communal Concerns

The Karnataka government has prohibited the screening and airing of the Bollywood movie “Hamare Baarah” for a minimum of two weeks or until further notice. The decision was made on the grounds that permitting the film’s release in the state could potentially incite communal unrest.

The decision to ban the release of “Hamare Baarah” was made by the Congress government by provisions of the Karnataka Cinemas (Regulation) Act, 1964. This move followed the consideration of appeals from numerous minority groups and delegations who had viewed the movie’s trailer, featuring Annu Kapoor, Manoj Joshi, Paritosh Tripathi, and Parth Samthaan.

Previously, the Bombay High Court had lifted the restraining order on the release of the highly awaited film, which it had imposed just two days prior. The court directed the respondents to establish a committee, consisting of three members, with at least one member being of the Muslim faith, to view the film and furnish a report. The court stressed the committee’s obligation to concentrate solely on the film’s subject matter and the allegations outlined in the petition.

‘Hamare Baarah’ has been a topic of widespread discussion due to its bold narrative on overpopulation, a theme rarely explored in Indian cinema. The movie’s bold narrative and thought-provoking themes have captured the public’s imagination.

Previously named ‘Hum Do Humare Baraah’, the film underwent a title change to ‘Humare Baarah’ following an instruction from the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC). The filmmakers stated, “The film, initially titled ‘Hum Do Humare Baraah’, has been renamed in accordance with the CBFC’s directive and will now be known as ‘Humare Baarah’. The movie is scheduled for a theatrical release on June 7th.”

Actor Manoj Joshi responded to the controversy surrounding the film, affirming that the movie was not created to target any particular religion.

Speaking to ANI, Joshi said, “I am an artist, I have done this film, but some people have opposed it. I am specifically saying that this movie was not made to target any religion. Today, there are discussions about the respect of women in our country. In any society, there should be no disrespect to women. A woman is not an object or a thing; she should be respected, as has been happening in this land of India. Secondly, that film talks about various topics such as education, upbringing, employment, women’s respect and empowerment, and population. So, everyone should watch this film with their families.”

Directed by Kamal Chandra, “Humare Baarah” is produced by Radhika G Film & Newtech Media Entertainment. Ravi S Gupta, Birender Bhagat, Sanjay Nagpal, and Sheo Balak Singh are credited as producers, with Triloki Prasad set as co-producer.